Cucumber Caprese Salad has become my absolute go-to for a quick and vibrant meal, especially when the weather heats up. I remember the first time I tried adding cucumber to my classic Caprese – it was a revelation! The crisp coolness of the cucumber, combined with the sweet cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, creates such a delightful contrast. This simple twist transforms a beloved dish into a truly refreshing cucumber tomato mozzarella salad. If you’re looking for an easy cucumber Caprese that’s bursting with flavor and takes mere minutes to assemble, you’ve found it. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Caprese Salad

This salad is a summer dream, and I’m so excited for you to try it! Here’s why it’s a winner in my book:

Incredible Flavor: It’s a vibrant explosion of fresh, summery tastes that just scream sunshine.
Lightning-Fast Prep: Seriously, you can whip up this cucumber and tomato salad with mozzarella in under 15 minutes.
Healthy & Light: Packed with veggies and fresh mozzarella, it’s a guilt-free way to enjoy a delicious meal.
Budget-Friendly: All the ingredients are typically easy on the wallet, especially when produce is in season.
Family Favorite: Even picky eaters often love the fresh flavors and satisfying textures of this cucumber and tomato salad with mozzarella.
Versatile: Perfect as a side dish or a light lunch on its own.
Visually Appealing: The bright colors make it a beautiful addition to any table.

Ingredients for Cucumber Caprese Salad

Gathering the right cucumber Caprese salad ingredients is key to its incredible freshness. I love how simple this list is, making it perfect for any day of the week! Here’s what you’ll need:

2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced (about 500g/2 cups) – I find English cucumbers work best because they have fewer seeds and thinner skins.
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (approximately 300g/1.5 cups) – Use ripe, sweet cherry or grape tomatoes for the best flavor. These cherry tomatoes are perfect.
8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine) – These little pearls of mozzarella are perfect for easy distribution and that classic creamy bite.
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (about 15g) – Fresh basil is non-negotiable; it adds that signature aromatic sweetness.
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – A good quality olive oil really makes a difference in the dressing.
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar – This provides a lovely tanginess to balance the richness of the mozzarella.
1/2 teaspoon salt – To enhance all the fresh flavors.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Freshly ground pepper adds a nice little kick.

How to Make Cucumber Caprese Salad

Let’s dive into how to make cucumber Caprese salad! It’s honestly so straightforward, you’ll be enjoying this delightful dish in no time. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity and the fresh flavors that come through with minimal effort.

Step 1: Begin by preparing your produce. Wash the 2 large cucumbers thoroughly and then slice them into thin, uniform rounds. I like mine about 1/8-inch thick for a nice crisp bite.
Step 2: Wash your 2 cups of cherry tomatoes and then slice each one in half. Place the halved tomatoes into a large mixing bowl.
Step 3: Add the sliced cucumbers to the same bowl with the tomatoes.
Step 4: Drain the 8 oz of fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine). Gently pat them dry with a paper towel so the dressing adheres better. Add these creamy morsels to the bowl.
Step 5: Take your 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves and tear them into smaller, bite-sized pieces. Don’t chop them; tearing releases more of their amazing aroma and flavor. Add them to the bowl.
Step 6: Now, let’s make the dressing for this simple cucumber Caprese salad. In a small separate bowl, whisk together the 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk until it’s nicely emulsified.
Step 7: Pour the prepared dressing evenly over all the ingredients in the large bowl.
Step 8: Using a gentle hand, toss everything together until all the components are lightly coated with the dressing. You want to ensure everything is mixed well without bruising the delicate basil or tomatoes.
Step 9: Let the salad sit for about 5 to 10 minutes. This short resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making this easy cucumber Caprese even more delicious.
Step 10: Serve immediately and enjoy this incredibly refreshing salad!

Cucumber Caprese Salad - fresh ingredients being tossed together

Pro Tips for the Best Cucumber Caprese Salad

To elevate your salad from good to absolutely amazing, here are a few tricks I’ve picked up:

Use English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers, as they have fewer seeds and thinner skins, making them perfect for slicing without peeling.
Don’t skip the resting time! Letting the salad sit for 5-10 minutes after dressing allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a pinch of dried oregano to the dressing.
If you can’t find ciliegine mozzarella, you can cube a larger ball of fresh mozzarella yourself.

What’s the secret to perfect Cucumber Caprese Salad?

The secret to the best cucumber Caprese salad is using the freshest ingredients possible and not over-dressing it. The balance between the crisp cucumber, sweet tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, enhanced by a simple vinaigrette, is pure perfection. For a similar fresh taste, try this Mediterranean chickpea salad.

Can I make Cucumber Caprese Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this salad a few hours ahead! Keep the dressing separate and toss everything together just before serving to maintain the crispness of the cucumber and prevent the basil from wilting.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cucumber Caprese Salad?

A common pitfall is using watery tomatoes or cucumbers. Ensure your produce is dry. Also, over-dressing can make the salad soggy; start with less dressing and add more if needed. Remember, adding cucumber is a fantastic way to add hydration and crunch. For more tips on produce, check out this article on vegetable gardening.

Best Ways to Serve Cucumber Caprese Salad

This salad is incredibly versatile and shines as a light accompaniment to many dishes. It’s the perfect way to add a burst of freshness to your meal. For a truly refreshing cucumber caprese experience, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a balanced and healthy dinner. It also makes a delightful side for burgers or steak. You might also enjoy it with veggie burgers.

Another wonderful way to enjoy it is as a light lunch on its own, perhaps with a slice of crusty bread for dipping into that delicious dressing. You can also serve it as part of a larger mezze platter or an antipasto spread, showcasing its vibrant colors and clean flavors. It’s a simple yet elegant addition to any table setting.

Cucumber Caprese Salad - close-up of ingredients with dressing

Nutrition Facts for Cucumber Caprese Salad

This healthy cucumber Caprese salad is as good for you as it is delicious! Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition per serving, offering a light and satisfying option.

Calories: 180
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 300mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary slightly based on specific ingredient brands and sizes used.

How to Store and Reheat Cucumber Caprese Salad

Keeping this refreshing salad tasting its best is simple, even for meal prep! After you’ve enjoyed your delicious cucumber Caprese salad, store any leftovers properly. First, allow the salad to cool down to room temperature if it was recently made. Then, transfer any remaining salad into an airtight container. I find glass containers work best for salads like this. You can store the prepared salad in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. The cucumbers will hold up well, but the basil might become slightly less vibrant over time. For other salad ideas, consider this classic Caprese salad.

Unfortunately, this salad doesn’t freeze well due to the high water content in the cucumbers and tomatoes, which can make them mushy upon thawing. You won’t need to reheat this salad, as it’s meant to be enjoyed cold and crisp!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cucumber Caprese Salad

What is Cucumber Caprese Salad?

A Cucumber Caprese Salad is a delightful twist on the classic Italian Caprese salad. It features the traditional trio of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil, but with the refreshing addition of crisp cucumber slices. This makes it a lighter, more hydrating, and equally delicious variation.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative. Red onion, bell peppers, or even some Kalamata olives can add extra flavor and texture. For a heartier meal, try adding some grilled chicken or chickpeas. Barley could also be a great addition for texture.

Why is my salad watery?

This can happen if your cucumbers or tomatoes have too much moisture. For cucumbers, salting them lightly and letting them sit for a few minutes before patting them dry can help draw out excess water. Ensure your tomatoes are ripe but not overly soft.

What’s the best way to serve Caprese salad with cucumber?

This salad is fantastic served chilled as a side dish to grilled meats, fish, or poultry. It also makes a light and satisfying lunch on its own, especially when paired with some crusty bread to soak up the delicious dressing. You could also pair it with spaghetti with garlic and oil.

Variations of Cucumber Caprese Salad You Can Try

Looking for some exciting caprese salad variations cucumber can bring? I love experimenting, and this salad is perfect for it! These ideas will help you tailor it to your taste or dietary needs, ensuring you always have a delicious and healthy cucumber Caprese salad.

Mediterranean Twist: Add some Kalamata olives and a sprinkle of dried oregano to the dressing for a Mediterranean flair.
Creamy Avocado Addition: Cubed avocado adds a wonderful creaminess and healthy fats. Just toss it in gently with the other ingredients.
Spicy Kick: For those who like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing or finely chop a jalapeño to mix in.
Feta Cheese Swap: If you prefer feta over mozzarella, crumble about 4 oz of feta cheese into the salad. It offers a saltier, tangier bite.